Melodic or Rhythmic?

[Lunardecay]

Hello, I am Chris.
Im the bass player/lead singer of my band, NOA.
I was wondering, is it bad if my bass lines have far more relation to the vocals/guitar than the do drums?
They tend to be more melodic than rhythmic, and I was wondering if this sort of void's my lines for not fuffilling the traditional bass niche?

 

[skewh]

Preferably, your basslines should be both rhythmically interesting and melodic. In my opinion, rhythm ought to come first, then once you get a solid yet groovy rhythm in order, you can concentrate on adding color and taste to the line.

 

[Lunardecay]

Oh, okay.

 

[r6mile]

I usually associate my basslines with the chords played by the rythmic guitarist (using scales). Then I make it go with the drums (if the drummer plays a cymbal, well I play the octave note for example), and later I try to make it go with the singer and the lead guitarist, but you should make it go with the chords and the drums first.

 

[dirtgroove]

No, it's not a bad thing. Peter Hook has done it for 30 years now.
It's not conventional, but many people would argue that being unconventional in itself is a fine thing.
The real question you should be asking yourself is- Does it sound good?

I'm very self consious of them same problem- but luckily people are more distracted by my heinous voice than my lack of groove..
Practice enough so that you can mix up the bass rythm a bit whilst singing and it will become less of an issue. + you'll be better than me

 

[Lunardecay]

Well basically my rhythm follows the same rhythm for the guitar (I also write more than half of our music (including lead guitar/rhythm and keys.)) and it does sound good.
It sounds more like Im playing guitar on the bass though (even though I tend to use my fingers more than a pick), but were really luck to have a drummer who does a good job of accomodating the music while adding groove.
My style is what you might hear if you added the simplicity of Punk bass-lines (eg, roots) and then fused it into a walking bass line.
Basically I use alot of anticipation with my lines.
Some are pretty groovy though I guess, but generally they flow at a steady pace.

 

[crazybassist601]

whats your full bands name??

 

[Lunardecay]

NOA, it doesnt stand for anything.
We are an experimental rock band, and wanted a really general name as to not be stereotyped.